I Am King: Master Your Domain, Master Your Life.

  I admit. I'm a hothead. It's in my DNA. I can't help it.  Thankfully, I haven't had an aneurysm (knock on wood) or dealt with an MMA fighter. Honestly, it has gotten me into more trouble than it has solved problems. Time to try a different approach. Greetings, future kings, current kings, wannabe kings, and benevolent overlords! Whether you're managing an empire, a group chat, or just trying to outwit your cat, subtlety is the ultimate tool in your leadership arsenal. As we age and grow wiser (or at least aim to), learning the art of subtlety isn't just a skill—it's a royal superpower. Let’s explore why subtlety is a timeless strategy for leaders, using examples from history’s most subtle rulers and tips for applying these lessons to your modern reign. Elizabeth I, oil on panel attributed to George Gower, about 1588. 1. Strengthen Relationships (AKA Don’t Be the Gossip King) Subtlety builds trust and shows people you value their perspectives. Queen...

I've been around a few moon cycles, so I consider myself old enough to be wise or at least know better. But when a buddy sent me a Happy IMD message, I thought it was a joke. Lo and Behold! It's a thing. I've been in my Castle too long...I need to get out more. Every November 19th, International Men's Day rolls around, often to a chorus of, "Wait, is that a real thing?" Yes, it absolutely is! And it's not just about Kings celebrating themselves in front of the mirror, flexing to their favorite motivational playlist (Mine is M.O.P's Ante Up on repeat). This day carries real significance for men and society as a whole. What Is International Men's Day? International Men's Day (IMD) began in 1999 in Trinidad and Tobago. It was spearheaded by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, who believed men deserved a day to celebrate their contributions while also addressing the challenges they face. Unlike Father's Day, which focuses solely on dads, IMD is inclusive ...

Peace is not the absence of power. It is its highest form. History tends to highlight warriors and emperors with booming commands, bloody campaigns, and blaring legacies. But sometimes, the most enduring power is quiet — a whisper of wisdom, a nod toward grace. From ancient Israel to imperial Japan, some sovereigns redefined what it means to lead — not by overpowering others but by mastering themselves. These rulers chose healing over hubris, clarity over chaos, and truth over triumphalism. Let’s walk through their stories — not to glorify the throne, but to listen to the silence that shaped nations. King Solomon: The Sage of Israel Reign: 970–931 BCE, Israel King Solomon wasn’t just a ruler but a reflection of wisdom itself. As a young king, he asked for understanding when given the choice of anything he desired. His decisions, like the famous judgment involving two mothers and one child, became parables of insight. The people followed not out of fear but because his words rang true....

My beloved Father passed 6 years ago a week short of his 78th birthday. (May the Lord welcome him in his eternal home. Amen). Today, my siblings and I are left with over $100 K in debts, a wicked stepmother, banks, judges, and lawyers up the proverbial wazzoo, unpaid bills, abandoned fields, and cracked walls in need of repair. And, of course, the unanswered question: "Why dad? whyyyyyy? It is with a heavy heart that I share this wisdom—so that your royal family won’t resent your royal legacy after you've transitioned. You're the king of your domain, ruler of your proverbial castle, and the big Kahuna of your household. You've conquered work, family, and perhaps even that suspicious pile of leaves on the front lawn. But there’s one final task every king must face: writing a will. While most would rather face a dragon than confront mortality, it's time to knight up and handle your business. 1. Be the King Who Plans Every wise ruler values a strong exit strategy. Lea...

For a king, ruling well means leaving the kingdom intact for the next generation. But not every ruler thinks ahead; when they don't, the result can be absolute pandemonium. Here are five real-life examples where a king's lack of a clear succession plan—or any will at all—led to crises, power struggles, and even wars. Take note, aspiring leaders: a little foresight saves the throne! 1. King Ndahura of the Bachwezi Empire (14th Century) Country : Bachwezi Empire (Present-day Uganda) The Mess : Empire Fragmentation and Civil Strife King Ndahura of the ancient Bachwezi Empire, a mysterious East African kingdom, was widely celebrated for his wisdom and leadership. However, he left no designated heir. Upon his death, the lack of a clear successor led to bitter disputes among the nobility, gradually fragmenting the once-thriving empire. The kingdom broke into smaller states, diminishing the influence of the Bachwezi and leading to civil strife among rival factions. Ndahura's failu...